Indonesia officially halts visa-free entry for all except ASEAN nationals

Photo illustration of a visa stamp. Photo: Pixabay
Photo illustration of a visa stamp. Photo: Pixabay

Indonesia has temporarily halted its visa-free policy for 159 countries. Of those, travelers from 92 countries can still obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) before entering the country.

The suspension, which is now in effect following a Ministry of Law and Human Rights decree on travel signed on June 7, affects almost all countries that were previously eligible for visa-free visits of up to 30 days. 

The only exceptions are the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), namely Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor Leste, and Vietnam. Travelers from these countries can still enter Indonesia without a visa, provided that they have a valid passport and a confirmed departure ticket.

Travelers from 92 countries (you can view the full list here) may obtain a VOA upon arrival, or apply for an electronic VOA prior to departure to Indonesia. 

All other foreigners who wish to visit Indonesia must obtain a visa from Indonesian missions abroad, or electronically, in accordance with the purpose of their visit. 

Electronic visa applications can be made here.

Reciprocity

In his official statement yesterday, the Ministry of Law and Human Rights’ Immigration Director General Silmy Karim said that the government is seeking visa-free reciprocity with other nations.

“If the visa-free policy is revived, we will have to justify it by reviewing these three criteria: a reciprocal aspect, benefits to Indonesia, and security considerations,” he said.

In 2016, Indonesia waived visa requirements for travelers from 169 countries (including the 10 ASEAN member countries). The policy was tightened amid strict travel restrictions during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, during which time most international travelers had to obtain a visa prior to departure or upon arrival in Indonesia.



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